Eric Dickerson

The Relentless Speedster Who Redefined the Running Back Position

When it comes to record-breaking running backs, few names command more respect than Eric Dickerson. With his upright running style, rare combination of power and speed, and signature goggles, Dickerson was a force of nature in the NFL during the 1980s.

From the moment he stepped onto the field as a Los Angeles Rams rookie in 1983, it was clear the NFL had never seen a runner quite like him. His blend of size (6'3", 220 lbs), vision, and acceleration made him a nightmare for defenses. He wasn’t just fast—he could outrun defensive backs while shedding tackles.

Over 11 seasons, Dickerson racked up yards at a pace no one had ever seen before. His 2,105-yard season in 1984 remains the NFL's single-season rushing record, a mark that has stood for nearly 40 years. A six-time Pro Bowler, five-time First-Team All-Pro, and Hall of Fame inductee (1999), Dickerson cemented his place among the greatest rushers in football history.

The Numbers Behind Dickerson’s Greatness

• NFL Record – 2,105 rushing yards in a single season (1984)
• 13,259 career rushing yards (9th all-time)
• Four-time NFL rushing champion (1983, 1984, 1986, 1988)
• NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1983)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1986)
• Six-time Pro Bowl Selection (1983–1984, 1986–1989)
• Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1999)

A Record-Breaking Rookie Season (1983)

Drafted second overall by the Rams in 1983, Dickerson wasted no time making an impact. He rushed for 1,808 yards, breaking the rookie record at the time and setting the stage for his legendary career. His blend of speed and power made him nearly impossible to stop, and he immediately became the focal point of the Rams’ offense.

1984 – The 2,105-Yard Season (A Record That Still Stands)

In just his second season, Dickerson set the NFL single-season rushing record with 2,105 yards—a record that still stands today. He averaged an astonishing 131.6 rushing yards per game, a pace no running back has matched since.

A Star in Los Angeles, Indianapolis, and Beyond

While best known for his time with the Rams, Dickerson’s dominance didn’t stop there. After contract disputes in 1987, he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts, where he led the NFL in rushing that same season. He later played for the Raiders and Falcons, finishing with 13,259 career rushing yards, ranking 9th all-time.

Defining Moments of Dickerson’s Career

• 1983 Rookie Year: 1,808 rushing yards set a new standard for first-year players.
• 1984: 2,105-Yard Season: A record that still stands nearly four decades later.
• 1987 Trade to the Colts: Proved his talent transcended teams by winning the rushing title in his first season in Indianapolis.
• Hall of Fame Induction (1999): Secured his place among the all-time greats.

The Most Iconic Eric Dickerson Football Cards

• 1984 Topps #280 Eric Dickerson Rookie Card – His most sought-after card, showing him in his early Rams days.
• 1985 Topps #53 Eric Dickerson – Highlights him following his record-breaking season.
• 1988 Topps #160 Eric Dickerson – Captures him in his Colts prime.

The Legacy of Eric Dickerson

Eric Dickerson wasn’t just one of the best running backs ever—he was one of the most dominant forces the league has ever seen.

His running style was effortless, his speed was unmatched for a back his size, and his impact on the game was undeniable. Every time he touched the ball, he was a threat to break free for a touchdown, making him one of the most electrifying players in NFL history.

To this day, his 2,105-yard season remains untouched, a testament to his once-in-a-lifetime ability.

Eric Dickerson: A record-breaker, a Hall of Famer, and one of the greatest to ever carry the football.